Autopsies Under Way In Thornton Father-Son Shooting Deaths

THORNTON, Colo. (CBS4)– Autopsies are under way for a father and son both killed in a shooting inside their home.

Police found 4-year-old Michael Bristol dead in his Thornton home Tuesday morning. His father, Kevin Bristol, was also shot and died in the hospital.

Autopsies for both began at 1 p.m. Wednesday. Police expect to release new details once they are completed.

Police said they do not have a suspect at this time but believe whoever pulled the trigger was in the house. Detectives also said there is not a gunman on the loose. Police have not indicated whether the deaths are a murder-suicide or linked to another person.

A memorial now stands outside the home where the little boy and his father were shot. Neighbors are distraught over the circumstances.

Neighbors on May 9, 2012, gather outside the home where the shooting took place. (credit: CBS)

“He loved that little boy. He had a motorcycle and take him out for rides around the block and he’d play with him in the front yard,” said neighbor David Arguello.

Neighbor Jason Smith brought flowers to the growing memorial.

“I have kids. It’s just sad. It’s real close to home,” said Smith.

Police said Bristol’s wife, Carmin, called 911 Tuesday at midnight. She was inside the house at the time of the shootings. Detectives are talking to her about what happened.

“It’s not a family you’d ever think there would be something like that,” said neighbor Dennis.

Investigators continued to remove items from inside the home Wednesday afternoon. They were focusing on the backyard where a washing machine and dryer were kept outside.

Several neighbors told CBS4 the couple had a history of police presence at their home which has turned into a crime scene.

“Last year there was an incident. My daughter was walking down here and the couple was fighting and she called the cops. It was a big argument. The dad left in a big rage,” said Smith. “I just think it’s another senseless death that probably didn’t need to happen.”